TUCKER, Moses
1744 - 1813 (68 years)
HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH, CHESHIRE COUNTY, NEW HAMPSHIRE **Note: although spelled "Marlboro" in this document, the correct and accurate spelling of the town is "Marlborough"*** ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- Information located at http://www.nh.searchroots.com On a web site about GENEALOGY AND HISTORY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE and its counties TRANSCRIBED BY JANICE BROWN Please see the web site for my email contact. ---------------------------------- The original source of this information is in the public domain, however use of this text file, other than for personal use, is restricted without written permission from the transcriber (who has edited, compiled and added new copyrighted text to same). ======================================================== TAKEN FROM TWO SOURCES: 1. History of Cheshire and Sullivan Counties, New Hampshire Philadelphia: J.W. Lewis & Co., 1886, 1073 pgs. 2. Gazetteer of Cheshire County, N.H., 1736-1885 by Hamilton Child, Syracuse, N.Y.: H. Child, 1885, 882 pgs. page 258* & 302 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH NH MARLBORO is a small irregularly outlined township, lying in the central part of the county, in lat. 24 degrees 54' and long. 4 degrees 49', bounded north by Roxbury, east by Harrisville, Dublin and Jaffrey, south by Troy, and west by Troy, Swanzey and Keene. It was originally granted by the Masonian proprietors, under the name of Monadnock No 5., to James Morrison Jr., and thirty-one associates, May 20, 1752. This charter granted to these gentlemen a tract of land 20,000 acres [original boundary designation in charter, found in original document, is not included here.] The proprietors met at the house of Joseph Blanchard, in Dunstable, NH on the same day the charter was issued and formally accepted the grant, etc. Most of them were residents of Dunstable and Londonderry [NH] and doubtless took the land as a speculation, with no idea of ever becoming settlers thereon. It is certain, at least, that no decided effort was made to bring foward a settlement. This, however, was doubtless due to the troubles attending the French and Indian War, which broke out in 1753. No record of any proceedings on the part of the proprietors is found for a period of over nine years, a period of inactivity which legally annulled their charter. But in 1761, twenty-eight residents of Westborough and Marlborough, Mass, obtained an interest in the land, and four of them, William Baker, Isaac McAlister, Richard Tozer and Daniel Goodenow, subsequently became settlers. A proprietor's meeting was warned to meet at Marlborough, Mass, November 20, of that year, of which Noah Church was made moderator, and Ebenezer Dexter was chosen clerk; Jesse Wright, treasurer; Noah Church, Jacob Felton and Ebenezer Dexter, assessors; and Stephen How, collector. At an adjourned meeting on April 30, 1762 it was voted to lay out the township into one hundred acre lots. It was surveyed by Jonathan Livermore, Noah Church and Isaac McAlister, and on the 22d of November, 1762, the lots were drawn by the proprietors. In answer to petitions from the inhabitants, a confirmatory charter was granted by New Hampshire, December 9, 1776, the act being opposed by the senate December 13, 1776, giving the territory the name of Marlborough, or New Marlborough. This name of New Marlborough, however, had been in use since 1770, given from the fact of so many of the citizens of Marlborough, Mass, being interested in the land, both as proprietors and settlers. General use now, has made it admissible for one to abbreviate words ending on borough, to boro, a privilege we avail ourselves of, and adopt in this case. [Boundaries in original document not included here.]. In 1766 the first town-meeting was held by the proprietors now settled at Monadnock No 5. and converned at the house of Isaac McAllister. The object was to take steps towards laying out roads through the township from Keene to Dublin, from Keene to Rindge, and from Swanzey to Fitzwilliam. The actual survey gave the town an area of 20,700 acres, but owing to the annexations of its territory to surrounding towns, it has now only about 13,000 acres. In 1767 the first saw-mill was erected. We can hardly tell by whom or just when, but tradition says it was built at the confluence of the brooks near the school-house in District No. 4, and that Daniel Harrington controlled it. During this year, it is said, Jedediah Maynard put up a frame house on what is known as the Artis Collins place, and which, in fact, constitutes a part of the house owned by his descendants at the present time. Another was built on the site of the Congregational Church by Abijah Tucker. During this or the following year a grist-mill and another saw mill were built in the north part of the township, on what was afterwards known as the Richardson Brook. This was the first grain-mill in this region. Previously, the settlers had been obliged to go six and more miles to get their grain ground. In 1769 the proprietors felt the time had come to direct their hands and hearts toward building a meeting-house. They made it binding on every owner of land to bear his share of expense. The outside was not boarded until 1774, and it was not furnished with glass windows and hinged doors until about 1790, when it was regarded complete. It was not supplied with stoves until 1823. Its belfry was added in 1834, and the first bell of the town pealed out.... In 1778 the first minister, Rev. Joseph Cummings of Topsfield, Mass was settled in town. The surface of the town is broken and uneven, which, still further varied by lakelet and stream, makes up some truly beautiful scenery. There are areas of alluvial land, however, having an excellent soil. But the soil in general is better adapated to grazing than tillage, though cultivation is rewarded with fair crops of Indian corn, oats, potatoes, rye and barley. There are many streams, of which the larger are Minniwawa brook and South Branch. The latter falls over the rocks a short distance above the village, making a very beautiful cascade. Of the several ponds, Stone pond lying in the eastern part of the town is the largest. It is about three-fourths of a mile in length by one- third of a mile in width, surrounded by exquisite natural scenery. Cummings pond in the northern part of the town, is about the same size, perhaps a trifle wider, though it was doutbless at one time much larger than it now is. Clapp pond, in the northern part of the town, is not as large as the others, but is much more depressed, while its waters are not so clear. Meeting-house pond, just south of the central part of the town, near where the old-meeting house stood, has an area of about a hundred acres, including the open water and the part covered by bog. All of these ponds are well supplied with fish of various kinds. The geological formation of the territory is made up mostly of primite rock, granite predominating. The drift or loose formation is composed largely of silicates. The deposits give evidence of glacial, aqueous and iceberg action. The minerals consist mainly of granite, gneiss, granular and rose quartz, feldspar, mica, beryl, garnets and plumbago. The sedimentary rocks are made up of sand, clay and peat. The Manchester & Keene railroad passes through the northern part of the town, and the Cheshire road through the southwester part. In 1880 Marlboro had a population of 1,275 souls. In 1884 it had eight school district and eleven different public schools, four of whom were graded. Its eight school-houses, including sites, furniture, etc. are valued at $9, 025. There are 281 pupils, taught by one male and sixteen female teachers, the former receiving an average monthly salary of $48, and the latter $25. The entire amount of revenue for school purposes was $2,360.08 while the entire expenditure for the year was $2,345.05 with Rev. J.L. Merrill and R.T. Polk, superintendents. MARLBORO is a handsome post village, located in the northwestern part of the town. It has, aside from its many private residences, three churches (Congregational, Universality, and Methodist), one hotel, two general stores, a hardware store, furniture store, shoe store, grocery, barber shop, confectionery store, a town hall, Odd Fellows hall, a foundry and machine shop, pail factory, two box factories, toy manufactory, three saw-mills, a grist-mill, yarn manufactory, knob manufactory, two blanket factories, two woolen mills, two blacksmith shops, two wheelwright shops, three cobbler shops, a livery stable and meat market. MARLBORO DEPOT (p.o.) is a small village and station on the Cheshire railroad in the southwestern part of the town. THE FROST FREE LIBRARY--the town has a fine public library, founded by RUfus S. Frost, in 1865, who donated $15,000 for the purpose. Of this amount $7,000 were devoted to the erection of a substantial granite building, $3,000 more were used in the purchase of books, and the remainer placed at interest, the revenue therefrom to be used in sustaining the library and in the purchase of new books. THE cHESHIRE BLANKET CO--whose mills are located at the village, was organized in the spring of 1873, the proprietors being C.O. WHitney and W.H. Clark. Their main building is a wood structure 72x65 feet, two stories in height and contains five sets of machinery. Their No. 2 mill is of wood, 40x45 feet, two stories, and has two sets of machinery. They have also two store-houses of wood, and a picker and boiler house, of brick. They use both steam and water-power, employ 90 hands in the manufacture of blankets and satinet goods, turning out $150,000 worth per annum. THE MONADNOCK BLANKET CO.--located at the village was incorporated in 1869, with a capital of $20,000, which, about five years later, was increased to $30.000. The first officers were W.H. Wilkinson, president; S.S. Wilkinson, clerk and treasurer; and Charles Shrigley, superintendent. They purchased of Thurston & Wilkinson the stone mill erected for a saw and grist-mill by Charles Holman, about 1840, which they converted into a blanket mill, with two sets of machinery. In 1877 they doubled their capacity, and now have four sets of cards, four jacks and thirty looms. They manufacture street and stable blankets of medium grades, turning out about 1,500 bales of fifty blankets each per annum, employing fiften hands. The present officers of the concern are W.H. Wilkinson of Springfield, president; S.S. Wilkinson of Keene, treasurer; and E.P. Richardson of Marlboro, superintendent. GEORGE F. WINCH'S PAIL-FACTORY is located at the village. It was purchased by his father, Nathan, of Dea. Simeon Whitcomb in 1852. He sold a half interest to William Nason in 1867, and the remainder to Hosea Knight at a subsequent date. At a later date he again became owner o the works and was connected with the business until 1879, when he sold out to his son. Mr. Winch employs fifteen hands and manufactures about 150,000 pails and buckets per annum. THE THURSTON MANUFACTURING CO, located at the village was organized in 1868, for the manufacture of picture knobs, door-stops, furniture fenders, clothes and hat pins, etc. THE O.R. WISWALL SAW-MILL AND bOX FAcTORY, located on road 4, was built by John Collins, about 1850, and came into Mr. Wiswall's possession in 1869. The establishment employes twenty hands and can turn out 800 lock-corner packing-boxes per day. Mr. Wiswall died early in 1885. LUTHER HEMENWAY located at the village, employs 5 men in the manufacture of boxes, toys and wagon jacks. JAMES TOWNSEND'S YARN AND HOSIERY MANUFAcTORY, located at the village, has been operated by him since July 4, 1837. He makes 7,000 pounds of yarn per year. E. WILLARD MASON'S CARRIAGE SHOP, located at the village, was originally established by Rollins & Mason. Mr. Mason became sole owner in 1879, and has conducted the business alone since. F & G A. Sherman's sash and blind factory, located at Marlboro Depot, was established by them in the autumn of 1883. They employ twelve men and do about $1,000 worth of business per month. C. HODGKINS & SON, located at the village, are engaged in the manufacture of all kinds of wood-working machinery. The business was established by Charles Buss and was purchased by Mr. Hodgkins in 1880. They employ 12 men. J. & L. KNOWLTON'S PAIL AND BUCKET FACTORY, located at the village, was estabished by them in 1861. They employ fiften men and manufacture 170,000 pails and 5,000 sap buckets per year. JARVIS ADAMS'S BOX FACTORY, located at Lowellville, gives employment to twelve men and turns out 200,000 boxes per year. MILES F. CUDWORTH'S SAW-MILL, on road 9, gives employment to eight men and cuts about 300,000 feet of lumber per annum. LEVI A. FULLER'S SAW-MILL AND BOX-FACTORY, on road 8, was built by him in 1872-73. He gives employment to from 12 to 20 men in getting out lumber and chair-stock and in manufacturing boxes. D.R. & F.A. COLE'S GRIST-MILL, on road 7, corner of 4, was built by Jesse Collins about 1835, and was purchased by the present owners January 1, 1885. It has three runs of stones and dones both custom and merchant work. A.G. MANN'S GRANITE QUARRY, located on road 10, was opened about forty years ago. Mr. Mann, a resident of Worcester, Mass, employes about fiften men in getting out granite. EARLY SETTLERS OF THE TOWN: The first settler in the town was WILLIAM BARKER, a native of Westboro, Mass, who located in what is now Westhill, in Troy. He came on in 1761, selected the place for his future home, and came back again in 1762, and commenced a clearing. He seems not to have done much from that time until 1764, however, when he again came on from Massachusetts, enlarged his clearing, built a log house, and made arrangements for bringing on his family, which he accordingly did that autumn, arriving here on the 17th of September. Soon after, Isaac McAlister, who had previously built a log house on the farm now owned by Ansel Nye, brought his family on, consisting of his wife--a sister of Mrs. Brown--and four children. These two families consisting of eleven persons, were all the inhabitants residing in the township during the winter of 1764-1765. In 1865 Amos Fife located in the part of the town subsequently set off to Troy. Benjamin Tucker and his wife and seven children settled on the place subsequently owned by Tarbell & Whitney. Daniel Goodenow and his wife and four or five children, from Marlboro, Mass, and Abel Woodward and family, also located where the village now is. No settlers are known to have come in during 1766, but in 1767 the census returns show the town to have had a population of 93 souls, as follows: nine unmarried men between the ages of sixteen and sixty; sixteen married men between the ages of sixteen and sixty; twenty-five males under sixteen years of age; one over sixty; twenty-fix unmarried females; and sixteen married females. IN 1770 the town had the following list of settlers, all of whom, except the five marked with a star, having families:-- Thomas Riggs Jonathan Shaw Joshua Tucker Jonah Harrington James Tiffany *Silas Hooker Richard Tozer James Crossman *William Adams *Thaddeus Hastings Joseph Peck James Brewer John Felton Benjamin Tucker Jr. Isaac McAlister Richard Roberts Abel Woodward *Stephen Church David Warren Samuel Bishop Benedict Webber Daniel Goodenow Benjamin Tucker Joseph Collins *Silas Fife William Barker Jonathan Goodenow The first town meeting was held March 11, 1777, when Thomas Riggs was chosen moderator; David Wheeler clerk; Capt. James Lewis, treasurer; Capt. James Lewis, Lieutenant Eliphalet Stone, and Richard Tozer, selectmen; Abel Woodward, constable; Daniel Cutting, William Tiney, Phineas Parks, and Theodore Mann,, surveyors. Silas Fife and Jedediah Taintor tythingmen; David Denfor and Samuel Bishop, deer reeves; Richard Roberts, Eliphalet Stone, David Wheeler and Reuben Ward, hog reeves; James Lewis, David Wheeler, Thomas Riggs, Olivers Wright and Benoni Robens, committee of safety; and Richard Atwell, Jedediah Taintor, Jonathan Goodenow and Thaddeus Hastings, fence viewers. Up to the incorporation of the town in 1775, the public interests were controlled by the proprietors. After that they continued to hold meetings from time to time until 1801, when having discharge all their debts, etc. their papers were delivered over to the town, and their organization was dissolved. The first saw-mill was built by DANIEL HARRINGTON in 1767, at the junction of the brooks, south of the school-house in District No. 4. In the autumn of that year, also, the first two frames houses were built. The first of these was erected by Jedediah Maynard, on the farm now owned by Ivory E. Gates and is the eastern half of Mr. Gate's houses. The second is that of Abijah Tucker, and was located on the site of the Congregational meeting-house. A short time after this, John Collins built a saw and grist-mill in the northern part of the town, on Richardson brook, near the bridge east of the place where Stillman Richardson now lives. This was the first grist-mill erected in town. Not far from this time, also Abijah Tucker built a saw and grist-mill on the site of the mill now owned by the Monadnock Blanket Company. The erection of these two mills did much toward advancing the settlement of the town. The hotel, or inn, was kept by Benjamin Tucker in 1769. The first store was opened by Joseph Sweetser in 1792. The first physician was Dr. Justus Perry, who settled here in 1786. REVOLUTIONARY WAR As early in the Revolutionary contest as 1775, at least six of Marlboro's scanty population joined the continental army, viz: Moses Tucker, Timothy Rogers, Robert Worsley, Daniel Collins, Lieutenant James Brewer and Pearson Newell. [A second account states it sent to the Battle of Bunker Hill, the 17th of June 1775 the following: Moses Tucker, Timothy Rodgers, Robert Worseley, Daniel Collins, Lieutenant James Brown and Pearson Newell]. In a report made by the selectmen on the 3d of October of that year, however, the number is given as sixteen "out of which number two are dead." Among the others who went to war were the following: William Barker, Richard Atwell, David Lawrence, Benjamin Goodenow, Abel Woodard, Peter Tozer, Daniel Goodenow, Jonah Harrington, Colvin Goodenow, Frederick Freeman, Reuben McAlister, Adine Goodenow, Jabez McBride, Captain James Lewis, Lieutenant Richard Roberts, Ensigh [sic Ensign] Oliver Wright, Sergeant John Roers, John Felton, Moses Tucker, Thomas Upham, John Lewis, James Bemis, Elijah Park, James Flood, Robert Converse, James Dean, Samuel Bishop Jr., John Tozer, Richard Tozer, Eliphalet Stone, Phines Park, William Tenney, Elnathan Newton, Jedediah Taintor, John Felton, David Wheeler, Thaddeus Hastings, John McBride, Thomas Riggs, Abijah Tucker, Shem Kentfield, Shubael Stone, Theodore Mann, Abraham Brooks, Peter Starkey, Eli Lewis, and Walter Capron. Another source states, In July 1776, a regiment of NH militia was raised to increase our army in Canada; but a change was made, so that it was sent to Ticonderoga to aid in defending that part of our country. On the roll of this regiment we find the names ofr Benjamin Goodenow, Abel Woodward, and Peter Tozer, who enlisted from Marlborough. In September of the same year another force was called for from New Hampshire to reinforce the army in New York, and in the following December it came under the immediate command of General Washington. Among the names from our State we find those of Daniel Goodenow and Jonah Harrington. In the Spring of 1777 England decided to invade the States from the north with seven thousand troops besides a large artillery train and several tribe of Indians, all under the command of General Burgoyne. Accordingly steps were at once taken by the colonists to enlist men for three years, or during the war. Our State was called upon to furnish one hundred and nineteen men; the quota for Marlborough was six. Colvin Goodenow, Frederick Freeman and Reuben McAlister enlisted immeidately and the town offered a bounty which soon induced Adino Goodenow, Timothy Rogers and Jabez McBride to give in their names, thus meeting the demand made upon our town at this call. Peter Tozer joined the army not long after. These men were mustered into service and put into Colonel Scammel's regiment, in which Andrew Colburn, of this town, was lieutenant- colonel. This force was engaged in the battle of Stillwater, and the men proved themselves daring and loyal. Though they were in the thickest of the battle, they faltered not, but seemed bound to live or die for their country. Lieutenant-Colonel Colburn and Frederick Freeman were killed in battle. At a call to protect New England from General Burgoyne, under the command of General John Stark and Col. William Whipple to march into Vermont, Marlborough sent Isaac McAlister as sergent, William Tenney as corporal and John Tozer. These men participated in the battle at Bennington and in the surrender of Burgoyne. In 1779 New Hampshire supplied Capt James Lewis and Russell Oliver to join three Continental batallions. There were also also thirty-nine Revolutionary soldiers subsequently settled in the town. WAR OF 1812 In the war of 1812 there went out from the town eleven men, as follows [those who were drafted are marked with a star]: Etheel Parmenter*, Benjamin Fife*, Henry H. Cutler*, Nathan D. Barker*, Abner Fairbanks*, Moses Perkins, Stephen White, Ezekiel White, Darius Williams, Aaron Hodgkins and Levi Gates Jr. WAR OF THE REBELLION (CIVIL WAR) In the late war, the town furnished, including foreign substitues, ninety-eight men, and paid in bounties, $10,421.00 Those who joined the Second NH Regiment include: Levi N. Converse, Daniel B. Woodward, William H. Tenny, James Newell, Merrick H. Ross, Amaziah Sawtelle, John Totten, Asa M. White, Rhodolphus I. White, Lucius F. Hunt, Amos L. Corey, Mark Tens Greenwood, Cyrus E. Hardy, Augustus C. White, Milton G. Razey. This regiment was engaged in more than twenty battles and lost in action more than 800 men. Of this group, Levi N. Converse enlisted as a private, but was soon promoted, because of merit, to the rank of Sergeant, and then to that of lieutenant-coonel. In the ordeal of Gettysburg he lost his right arm, and at the battle of Chapin's Farm a minie-ball went through the roof of his mouth, badly disfiguring his face. But from these wounds he remained in the hospital no longer than he was obliged to, before he was in the active service again, and continued with his regiment until it was mustered out of service in Concord at the close of the War. When the Sixth Regiment was raised in the autumn of 1861, eighteen men from Marlborough joined it consisting of: Nelson Converse, Oscar W. Farnum, Calvin Stone, Charles A. Field, F.H. Castone, John H. Priest, Edward F. Adams, Henry H. Atherton, William A. Russell, George H. Smith, Thomas L. White, Charles W. Pike, George V.R. Farnum, Francis M. Farrar, Arculus Vicar, Everett F. Gates, Charles L. Clarke, and George Tilden. Nelson Converse, the father of Levi Converse, served as colonel of this regiment till he was forced to resign from ill health. Edward F. Adams was promoted from the ranks to captain. The regiment experience much hard service in camp and on field. In 1862 at the raising of the Fourteenth Regiment of three years' men, the citizens of Marlborough supplied eighteen more soldiers, whose names are as follows: James Totten, Nathaniel P. Rust, Christopher Totten, Theodore Pope, William Collins, Sumner L. McCollester, Enoch Foster, William H. Pierce, George H. Stone, Luke Knowlton Jr., George H. Stockwell, Charles A. Mason, Alphonso A. Adams, Edwin B. Matthews, Perley E. Collins, Ebenezer T. Greenwood, Delevan C. Richardson, Charles Knowlton. This was a marked regiment all through the the war, and the "boys" in it from Marlborough won lasting honors by their heroism and Faithful service. Some of them were killed on the field of battle, most of them were wounded, several died in hospitals and others were mustered out of service at the end of the war and are still iving. ****** BIOGRAPHIES OF EARLY SETTLERS AND PROMINENT CITIZENS ****** DUNCAN ABEL BAKER, aka ABEL BAKER was born April 8, 1797 and brought up on a farm. He attended local schools, and also an academy at New Salem, Mass, where he studied one term, and began teaching. He married April 18, 1821 Sarah C. --, and located on a farm in Troy NH, and devoted his attention to agriculture...He served the town some 15 years as selectman, and represented it in the legislature. He did a large amount of business in the settlement of estates. He died Sept 26, 1878. [Children include, Mira A., b abt 1832 NH and Mary, b abt 1837 NH--from 1850 & 1860 US Census of Troy NH] CHARLES A. BEMIS--born in Marlborough NH Jan 29, 1848, the second born and first son. After he was 14 he went to only four short terms of school. He learned to read, write and spell tolerably well, but he was a stranger to grammer, as his schooling was finished. But he early became fascinated with biography and history; and it is said that when he was but 10 years old he read the history of the town of Dublin, and from that time felt he could write the history of his native town. Henceforth he was gathering up facts and incidents for years unknown to others until about the time that the town of Marlborough celebrated the hundredth anniversary of its incorporation in 1876.... [He was the son of Charles R. & Elmira (Parmenter) Bemis of Marlborough and had a sister, Ellen who prob died unmarried]. According to the 1900 US Census he was living in Marlborough NH, with Wife Mary L. [b. May 1856 NH], and children, Nellie Elmira [b 16 Feb 1882 NH], William Rufus [b 18 May 1883 NH], Harry Walton [b. 15 Feb 1888 NH], and Etta May [b 6 Feb 1890 NH], along with his sister Ellen R. Bemis, age 68 and single. From Ancestry.com it states that he died 16 March 1926 and is buried in Graniteville Cemetery, Marlborough NH; he married 1 Jan 1881 in Whatley MA to Mary Lestina Phillips. She b 10 May 1856 in Nelson NH, and d. 18 July 1934. DOLPHUS BIXBY, born in Hillsboro NH, in 1790, has resided with his son, Russel Bixby for the past 16 years. Russell came here in 1870. In the spring of 1881 he made 240 pounds of maple sugar from 17 maples. [From Ancestry.com, he b. 7 Jan 1790; m. Jan 1813 to Ascsa(h) Carr, who was b. 17 Dec 1793. Had several children including Henry, Russell, Mansel, John, Nancy, Charles Carr, and Ascha A. He married 2) after 1864 to Lydia Jones. ELIJAH BOYDEN, a native of Massachusetts, came to this town in 1806, and died here July 22, 1814, aged 51 years. His son, Elijah Boyden, born here August 15, 1814, began life as a clerk for his brother, with whom he remained seven years. He then went to Boston, and remained about 3 years, when he returned to Marlboro, and was a merchant here for 15 years. MARTIN CHASE was born in Unity NH and came to this town in 1869. He represented the town of Washington in the legislature of 1840, and now holds the office of justice of the peace. FULLER CLARK, who has been a resident of the town since January 1826, was born in Troy in 1804. OSGOOD COLLESTER was born in Marlborough Feb 12, 1815. He was born a singer and a musician. He was the youngest of twelve children of Samuel and Silence Collester. He spent his boyhood on his father's farm and his youth in his brother, Charles' shoe-shop. When he came of age, he worked at the shoe-bench, having become a skilled craftsman. He attended local common schools. He began early to play the violin and sing. At about the age of 25 he began to give instruction in vocal music in Marlborough and to lead the choir in the old church on the hill. He was under the tuition of Lowell Mason and other distinguished teachers and composers of music. He became a pianist in addition to being a violinist. He sang in various churches in Winchendon, Worcester and Fitchburg MA. He composed many popular pierces of music and compiled several singing books. He was a popular instructor in Teachers' Institutes in MA and NH. He died in 1873. JAIRUS B. COLLINS, M.D., son of Samuel and Lydia (Mathews) Collins, was born in Marlborough April 21, 1794. He studied medicine with Dr. Ephraim K. Frost, of Marlboro, and at the completion of his studies, in 1822, he removed to Londonderry Vt., where he was a successful physician up to the time of his death, Feb 3, 1851. JAIRUS COLLINS [prob son of the above] b. April 13, 1816. For many years served on the school board. Held the office of justice of the peace in Marlborough since 1852. JOHN CONVERSE, a native of Leicester, Mass, came to Marlboro in 1780 and located about half a mile east of the village. Here he passed his time as carpenter and joiner, wheelwright and farmer, until his death, about 1850. His son NELSON CONVERSE was born here Oct 10, 1810 and has been proprietor of the Converse House for the past twenty years. He is a justice of the peace, was colonel of the 6th NH Vols, has been deputy sheriff many years, represented the town in 1855-56, and has been selectman two or three years. He married Sep 10, 1829 to Sally M. Jones. His mother died when he was 4 years of age, and had been placed in the family of a sister. He also lived in Newport Vt. He was engaged in the mill business in company with his brother Gilman Converse. He later engaged in Stone-quarying. His first wife dying in 1872, in 1873 he married, for his second, Mrs. Fannie M. Everett of Fitzwilliam; for the last 10 years he kept a public-house for the accomodation of travelers, but sold not intoxicating liquors. JOHN WILLIE CONVERSE, son of Nelson and Sallie M. (Jones) Converse, was born in Marlborough NH July 3, 1848. He studied in local schools and in seminaries in Vermont, Maine and NH. When about 21 years of age he commenced the study of law at home, under the direction of the late law-firm of Wheeler & Faulkner of Keene NH, and when he became of age, removed to Springfield MA where he continued his studies for 2 years in the office of Augustus L. Soule--later judge of the Supreme Court of Massachusetts--and in 1872 was admitted to the bar of that state. The following year he became engaged to, and married, Miss Clara A. Wheeler, a woman of uncommon merit and ability; but she died in May 1875. In 1876 he travelled West, and visited the principal cities, but finally settled in Boston MA, where he is now practicing his profession. REV. CHARLES CUMMINGS, son of Rev. Joseph and Anna Cummings, was born in Seabrook NH Sept 23, 1777. At the age of 2 years his parents removed to Marlborough, where he passed his childhood. He was married in 1798, and settled in Sullivan [NH] and became the father of several children, among whom one was Mrs. Elijah Boyden. In 1805 he was licensed to preach by the Baptist board of ministers, and received ordination in 1810 in Sullivan NH, where he formed a church. He was instrumental in organizing churches in Keene, Swanzey, Marlborough, Peterborough, Hillsborough, Lyndeborough and Antrim, and preached more or less in other towns in Sullivan, Hillsborough, and Merrimack counties. In 1820 he was called to domestic missionary work. The last few years of his life he labored in Pottersville, and died in Roxbury NH December 27, 1849, aged 72 years. ISAAC DAVIS, the seventh son of a seventh son, and hence called Doctor, immigrated from Massachusetts to Roxbury [NH] while that town was still a wilderness, residing there until his death in 1840. His son, JOSHUA DAVIS, was born there in 1796 and died July 2, 1862, while JOSHUA'S son, GEORGE G. DAVIS, born in Roxbury [NH] August 28, 1842 has been a resident of Marlboro since 1859. He is engaged in mercantile pursuits, has served as state senator from the 14th district, and was in the late war a year and a half. EDWIN DAVIS, son of Jonah and Sarah (Wilkinson) Davis was born May 8, 1821. He left home at the age of 14 to attend Melville Academy in Jaffrey. For several years he spent most of his time in academies, pursuing the sciences, mathematics, English and classical literature. At the age of 17 he first taught school in Swanzey NH. He entered the theological course under the direction of Rev. William N. Barber and Rev. C. Woodhouse. He was ordained to work of the gospel ministry at the annual convention of the Universalists at Winchester June 19, 1845. In 1845 he removed to Richmond NH where he remained 5 years. In 1850 he removed to Hinsdale NH, and also preached in West Brattleborough and Vernon, Vt., in Northfield MA and West Swanzy NH. His father died 24 March 1856, and he moved to Marlborough NH. In 1857 he settled in Paper Mill Village, Alstead NH where he remained 4 years. In 1861 he settled in Methuen MA to preach, and afterwards to South Acton, and in 1870 to Canton MA (for 9 years). He married and had at least oneson and two daughters (one son graduated in 1878 from the Medical School of Boston University and was a practicing physician in Quincy MA, and the other son was a graduate of TUfts College and Boston Dental College, and was a dentist in Boston MA). HON. GEORGE G. DAVIS--reared in Roxbury NH; enlisted during the Civil War. Was sounded at the battle of Williamsburg and was obliged to be discharged from the army. He came to Marlborough NH and married Miss Maria L. COllins and settled here. He was town clerk, treasurer, etc. He was born August 28, 1842. He represented the town in the legislature, has been a State Senator from his district, and at the present time is an officer on the Governor's staff. In religion he is a Congregationalist; in politics a Republican. PHINEAS FARRAR, son of Josiah and Hannah Farrar, was born in Sudbury, Mass., came to Marlboro in 1768, and died here at the age of 94 years. His son, William Farrar, a native of the town, died at the age of 81 years. Calvin Farrar, son of William, resides on road 9. LUTHER FARRAR, son of Phinehas and Lovina (Warren) Farrar, was born in Marlborough Jan 11, 1778. He chose law as his profession and settled in Maine. He died at Norway, Me April 28 1812. SILAS FIFE, of Boulton, Mass, arrived in 1765. He pitched his camp at the foot of the Monadnock Mountain, on what was afterwards known as the Deacon Barker place. In the course of a few summers he converted a portion of the wildnerness into a farm, where he was raising corn and potatoes; and, he had built a good log house. He returned to his native town, and took for his bride, Abigail Houghton. They were wedded in Boston, and then made their wedding tour to their new home in Marlboro. ELIJAH FITCH, a blacksmith by trade, and a native of Marlboro, married Eliza Josly, and died August 4, 1876, aged 64 years. His widow survives him, a resident of the village, where their son Murray Fitch also resides. LEVI A. FULLER--born May 4, 1836. Engaged in manufacturing wooden-ware and dealing in lumber. Served the town as selectman, representative to the legislature and was a county commissioner. A member of the Congregational church, holding the office of deacon since 1874. ELIJAH GATES was born in Stowe, Mass, in 1765, came to Marlboro in 1800 settled where his son Elijah Gates now resides, and died here in 1824. He latter was born here June 17, 1801, in the house he still occupies. LEVI GATES came to Marlboro with his father, from Massachusetts, about the year 1805, locating in the southern part of the town. He died about 1860, aged 69 years. His son, Winslow L. Gates, is still a resident of the town. DANIEL GOODENOW arrived in 1765. Of noble stock, he came from Marlborough, Mass. Where he first resided is not known, but probably in that part of the town which was afterwards set off as Troy. He brought with him a wife and several children. ASA GREENWOOD, was not a native of Marlborough, but he moved here in 1836, and began to put up stone structures. Nearly all the granite buildings and bridges in this vicinity were erected by him. In 1853 he removed to Illinois where he resided until 1877, when he came to Dummerston Vt to visit his son, Colonel W.H. Greenwood, and so, with him, he was permitted to visit Marlboro and also Dublin NH, and on his return to his son's, he sickened and passed away at the ripe age of four-score years. His remains were brought to Marlborough, and his funeral service held in the church he built (Graniteville Cemetery). DR. GEORGE L. HARRINGTON, son of Leonard B. and Eunice G. Harrington, was born in Winchendon, Mass November 11, 1844....He became a medical student in the office of Prof. Walter Carpenter of Burlington, Vt. In due time he entered the Medical Department of the Vermont University and graduated in course M.D. In the winter of 1872 he settled in Marlboro as a physician. REV. OSGOOD HERRICK, son of Ebenezer and Lydia (Eaton) Herrick, was born in Marlborough Nov. 19, 1799. He worked upon his father's farm until the age of 15, when he was placed in a store in Keene, where he remained until he was 21. In 1818 he became united with the Congre- gational Church in Keene. In 1821 he began the study of Latin, and in the fall of 1822 was admitted to Dartmouth College, from which he graudated in 1826. The following year he taught in the state of Virginia. In 1827 he entered Andover Theological Academy where he remained 3 years. On leaving the seminary he became pastor of the Congregational Church in Milbury, 9 Dec 1830, and was ordained and intalled over that church and society. Ten days later he married Miss Emily Wilder, of Keene. He died at Milbury, MA March 16, 1837. LUTHER HEMENWAY was born in Framingham, Mass in 1787, and came to Marlboro with his parents when but six months old, his mother bearing him with her on horse-back, making their way by the aid of marked trees. He died in Jaffrey in 1872. His son, Luther Hemenway, has served the town as selectman six terms, and is engaged in a manufacturing business. CURTIS F. HUNT, born in Hancock, Hillsborough Co in 1812, came to Marlboro in 1832, where he has since resided. JAMES KNOWLTON was born in Dublin NH Dec 28, 1885. FOr years in the winter he taught in the public schools. His house is on the boundary between Marlborough and Keene NH [so that he sleeps in the latter place and votes there, but lives in the former]. He is now engaged in getting out lumber and manufacturing pails. TIMOTHY L. LANE, M.D., son of John and Mary (Livingston) Lane was born in Marlborough Sept 1, 1800. He studied medicine with Dr. Batcheller. Attended school, first at Groton, MA, afterwards at Dartmouth College in Hanover NH, where he graduated in medicine in 1824. He located first at Sullivan in 1825; removed to Lunenburg Vt in 1832, remained there until 1834 when he went to Gilsum NH, where he lived until 1838; from thence to Daysville IL; practiced medicine there until 1841, and then removed to Fillmore, IL and continued the practice of his profession until his death, September 4, 1849. SAMUEL J. MARTIN, son of Jefferson and Rhoda (Davis) Martin was born in Weston, Windham Co VT, September 9, 1830. When three years of age his parents removed to Mount Holly, Rutland Co VT where he received his early education, dividing his time between his studies and farm work. Previous to his 17th year his help was much needed at home, and consequently he had limited advantages for study. At this time, however, he entered Black River Academy at Ludlow, Vt. and spent two terms each year during two years, and for the next four years studied at the same place during one term of each. His studies during this time were confined to the English branches; but he afterwards spent two terms at Chester Academy, and there pursued the study of Latin with other higher branches, earning money to defray his expenses by teaching penmanship and day-school. After leaving school he engaged in teaching, and continued it with the exception of one year--when he was in poor health--until his 28th year. He early developed a taste for the medical profession, but in his desire to enter it was opposed by his father, who preferred that he should become a farmer. Accordingly at the age of 28, he yielded to his father's wishes and purchased a farm with money a part of which he had earned by teaching. At the end of one year, becoming dissatisfied with farming, he began the study of medicine at home under the direction of A.E. Horton MD, of Mount Holly. One year later he sold his farm and gave his entire attention to his studies, and after three years study and taking two full courses of lectures graduated from the Eclectic Medical College in Philadelphia He began his practice in February 1863 at Marlborough and remained there until April 1866 doing a successful practice, and at that time removed to Walpole NH, and there, in addition to his practice, he opened a drug-store with another gentleman, who managed the latter business, while he devoted himself chiefly to his profession. At the end of eighteen months, having lost everything, he closed out his interest in the drug-store and gave himself unremittingly to his studies and practice. The force of circumstances induced him to investigate the subject of homeopathy, and at the end of one year's observation and careful thought, he embraced the principles of that school. Not having recovered from his failure in the drug business, and desiring a larger field of action, he removed to the West in 1869. After spending four months looking for a place to settle, he established himself at Racine, Wis., where he has since resided, building up an extensive practice and making for himself a most worthy reputation as a skillful practitioner. During his residence in Marlborough he was elected superintendent of public schools. He has filled the office two terms as vice-president and one term as president of the Homoepathic Medical Society of the State of Wisconsin. He is also a member of the American Institute of Homeopathy and the Illinois Homeopathic Medical Association. CLARK MASON was born here April 16, 1794, removed to Oswego county NY in 1817, remained until 1824, then came back to Marlboro, and died here in August 1861. His grandson, Warren W. Mason, son of William C. Mason, is superintendent of Hale's Chair Factory, at South Keene. JOSEPH C. MASON, son of Clark and Almira (Towns) Mason was born at the old homestead March 13, 1837. He attended common schools. Later in life he devote considerable time to the study of languages, sciences and advanced mathematics. He received a legal education at the Law College in Albany NY and in the office of Dearborn & Scott, distinguished attorneys of Peterborough NH. He was admitted to the bar in September 1864 at Nashua NH at a session of the Supreme Judicial Court. He practiced his profeesion at Mason village (now Greenville) NH, nearly 3 years, and then removed to Missouri, where he has for the most part resided. He held the office of superintending school committee at Mason village, and in 1866 was appointed by the Governor of New Hampshire to the office of common school commissioner of Hillsborough County, and was ex officio member of the State Board of Education. During the war he was an earnest advocate of the Union cause. After his removal to Missouri, he held the office of the principal of the Washington Public School, St. Louis; superintendent of public schools at Boonville, Carthage and Joplin, which last-named position he still holds. SUMNER A. MASON, M.D., fifth son of Clark and Almira (Towns) Mason, was born at the old homestead May 23, 1838, where he continued to reside until 21 years of age, where he attended common schools and became a student of Sullivan H. McCollester in Westmoreland Valley Seminary until the outbreak of the Civil War. He enlisted with the first three month's troops sent from NH, as a private in Company A, Cheshire Light Guards, as named by Captain Barker, which afterwards became a part of the "Fighting Second." He went from Keene to Portsmouth, where the regiment rendezvoused [sic] for some weeks, and emcamped upon the ground. The exposure, together with a severe attack of confluent measles, broke up his health for a long time, and confined him to the hospital. After a partial convalescence, he returned home, and his brother Charles took his place. In the winter of 1864-65 he spent in Philadelphia, for the purpose of attending medical lectures. During the two years and upwards he spent in that city he studied medicine in the office of Henry T. Child, MD, 634 Race Street, a QUaker gentleman.... In the spring of 1865 he visited Washington and Alexandria under the auspices of the Christian Commission, where he was detailed to visit various camps and hospitals in and about those cities. He remained here until the 3 of July, when he was ordered to visit City Point, Va. In residing there he made the acquaintance of his wife, who had been a nurse in the hospitals, and who, in turn, nursed him. She was the only child of Lurad C. Heath, a lineal descendant of General Heath of NH; and as they journeyed together on horseback over those bloody fields.. they concluded that the journey of life would be incomplete unless they travelled together. Miss Heath was seven years his junior, and a graduate of Rockland Female institute. After a few months, he returned to Philadelphia, where under the tuition of Dr. Child, he graduated in 1868, an allopathic physician. He practiced only a few months in Philadelphia, when he removed to New York City, where he achieved considerable success during the ensuing years, and where he still resides. CHARLES R. MASON--When a young man Mr. Mason had the misfortune to lose an arm, but it would seem this had been made up to him, from the fact that he has done so far as much as ordinarily falls to the lot of one man to do. He is a native of Dublin and was educated in her schools. Naturally gifted as to art, after his loss he devoted special attention to penmanship and drawing, so that he excelled in both and has taught writing for years. He is a fine accountant and book-keeper. He has filled many important offices in town, with credit to all. He is now justice of the peace, and was United States assistant assessor for 6 years. He was born July 27, 1830. He is one that thinks more than he says, and does as he agrees... ZIBA MASON settled at an early date upon the farm now owned by George F. Wise, where he died about 1845. His son, Ziba Mason, born on the old place, died here about 1862, aged 63 years. The latter's son, William M. Mason, born on the old homestead, is now a merchant of Marlboro and represented the town 1865-66. ISAAC McALLISTER, born September 25, 1736, married Hannah, daughter of William and Keziah (Cloyes) Goddard, born January 27, 1736. He was one of the proprietors of Monadnock No. 5, and as such he took an active part in the affairs of the town; and it is said that he rendered assistance in the survey of the township, and for his services took his pay in land. His name appears on the proprietor's books as one of a committee of three to lay out and clear a road from Dublin to Keene in 1763. He was the second settler in town, removing his family here in the winter of 1764-65. He first located on the farm now owned by Ansel Nye. But it seems he was not contented with this location, and sold his farm to Jonathan Frost, taking his pay in Continental money. It was his intention to purchase the Converse place, now owned in part by Rev. S.H. McCollester; but in this he was disappointed, and, before an opportunity presented itself for him to buy, his money had so depreciated that he became peniless, and was obliged to clear up and settle his only remaining lot, which is now known as the Sawyer place, and owned at the present time by Abraham Corey, then considered worthless. Here he continued to reside until his death, June 8, 1809. His widow died March 3, 1814. REV. SULLIVAN H. McCOLLESTER- Isaac McCollester, first of the family in Marlborough was born in 1736 and was one of the proprietors of Monadnock, and took an active part in the affairs for the town, and was paid in land for his services in the survey of the township. He was the second settler of Marlborough (Isacc), removing here in the winter of 1864-65, and was a resident until his death, June 8, 1809. Samuel-2, his son, married Silence Belknap and settled on the homestead. Silas-3 married Achsah Holman and resided for many years on the farm now owned by Dr. McCollester, where he died December 26, 1873. Rev. Sullivan, H. McCollester, D.D., son of Silas & Achsah (Holman) McCollester, and grandson of Isaac, was born in Marlborough NH, December 18, 1826. He worked on the farm during the summer and attended local schools in the winter. He attended seminaries and academies in Swanzey, Dublin, Jaffrey, Winchedon MA, and Brattleboro, Vt and was well fitted for college. At the age of 18 he commenced teaching at Richmond, later Walpole. In the winter of 1847 he entered Norwich (Vt) University, and graudated in the summer of 1851, having completed the classical course. November 23, 1852 he married Sophia F. Knight, daughter of Joel Knight of Dummerston Vt. Mrs. McCollester was a good scholar, and successful teacher at Melrose Academy, Vt. He is a graduate of Cambridge Divinity school, and was given the degree of D.D. by the St. Lawrence university in June 1874. Mr. McCollester has travelled extensively and is widely known as an educator. In 1853 he was in charge of Mount Caesar Seminary in Swanzey NH. He is now a resident of Dover NH, though he still owns a part of the ancestral estate. LEE SULLIVAN McCOLLESTER--He is the son of Rev. Dr. S.H. & Sophia F. McCollester and was born in Westmoreland NH June 5, 1859. Before he was 3 his parents removed to Westbrook Me where they resided until he was 10, then lived in Nashua NH more than 3 years where he attended his first school, and became fitted for high school. As his father was called to the presidency of Buchtel College, and his family removed to Akron, Ohio, Lee entered the preparatory department of the college in 1873, and became fitted for college and was matriculated into the freshman class in 1876, where he remained until he had completed his sophomore year, when, accompanying his parents, he visited Europe, where he passed a year in London University and in travel. Upon his return home, he entered Tufts College, as a junior 1879, and was graudated Bachelor of Arts in 1881, having taken two prizes in his course. In the fall of 1881 he began his theological studies at Tufts Divinity School, and was graduated Bachelor of Divinity, having won two prizes in this course. Immediately upon leaving college in 1884, he settled as a pastor over the Universalist Church of Claremont NH. In August of the same year he was married to Miss Lillian Adelle, daughter of Dr. Samuel G. and Louisa B. Wright, a young woman of rare qualities of mind and heart. For a year they have settled, greatly loved and respected by their people and by all knowing them. August 26, 1885, he became sorely afflicted through the death of his devoted and accomplished wife... JOHN QUINCY ADAMS McCOLLESTER, M.D., son of Silas and Achsah (Holman) McCollester, was born in Marlborough near the Roxbury line on May 3, 1831. In 1836 the family removed to the village. From age 4 to 10 he attended district school. In 1846 he attended a select school in Marlborough taught by Ransom N. and Royal H. Porter, and attended other schools and academies in Fitzwilliam, Walpole, Saxton's River and South Woodstock. He was often associated with his brother. Rev. Sullivan H. McCollester, as an assistant teacher. In 1848-49 he taught school in "Fay Hill" District of Walpole. In 1851 he passed an examination and was admitted to the Norwich University (Norwich Vt) where he graduated in 1853. In 1856 he received the degree of A.M. from that institution. He entered the office of Dr. James Batcheller, of Marlborough, as a student of medicine. He attended one course of medical lectures at Dartmouth Medical School, and for 5 months in 1855 was employed as an assistant in the hospital at Deer Island, Boston Harbor. He went to Philadelphia in Oct 1855, attended the course of lectures delivered at the Jefferson Medical College during the winter of 1855-56 and received the degree of MD from this institution in March 1856. In May 1856 he married Miss Sarah E. Hazen, of Shirley, Mass, and during the same month settled in South Deerfield. In November of the same year he moved to Groton Junction (now known as Ayer) MA. On 28 Aug 1857, his dau Anna was born, and on 5 May 1858 his wife died. 9 Aug 1859 he married 2) Georgianna L. Hunt, who bore him six children, 3 of whom now survived. In May 1862 he volunteered his services as a medical officer, and was employed as a surgeon in the field and in the hospital during and subsequent to the disastrous campaign of McClellan on the Peninsula. In Nov 1862 he was commissioned surgeon of the 53rd Regiment Mass Vols, and was on duty with the regiment during its active service in Louisiana. He was mustered out at the expiration of the term of service of the regiment, Sep 2, 1863. He resumed his practice at Groton Junction. He was appointed examining surgeon for United States invalid pensioners in 1864, which office he held until 1876. He served seven years on the board of the school committee of Groton MA, and 2 years in Harvard MA (same position) in which town he has resided since April 1869. He is a charter member of Caleb Butler Lodge of A.F. & A. Masons, and is one of its past masters. SAMUEL J. MARTIN, son of Jefferson and Rhoda (Davis) Martin, was born in Weston, Windham Co VT, September 9, 1830. WHen three years of age he moved to Mount Holly, Rutland Co VT where he received his early education, dividing his time between his studies and farm work. Previous to his 17th year, his held was needed at home, and he consequently had lmited advantages for study. At this time, however, he entered Black River Academy at Ludlow Vt and spent two terms earch year during two years, and for the next four years studied at the same place during one term of each.. afterwards spent two terms at Chester Academy. He studied medicine at home under the direction of A.E. Horton MD of Mount Holly, followed by 3 years of study and two full courses of lectures from the Eclectic Medical College of Philadelphia. He began his practice in February 1863 at Marlborough, and remained there until April 1866 removing to Walpole NH where he opened a drug store. In 1869 he moved west, settled at Racine< Wis. where he resided. DR. NATHANIEL H. MERRIAM was born in Chelsea, Mass, October 24, 1854, but his father's family soon removed to Lexington Mass where they now reside. He graduated at Phillips Academy, Andover in 1874, and entered Amherst College in the class of 1878. His college course was interrupted by sickness, which became so persistent that he was obliged to abandon his graduation and remain at home for a considerable time. At the famous celebration of the centennial of the battle of Lexington, in 1875, he was on the staff of Colonel W.A. Tower, chief marshal of escort for President U.S. Grant. At an early age he chose the profession of his late uncle, Dr. Nathaniel W. Merrimam, of Maryland, and began his studies with the late Dr. Currier, a physician of note in Lexington. In 1876 he travelled in Great Britain and the Continent, returning with improved health; attended lectures at Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University. In 1878 he entered Dartmouth Medical College, where his abilities attracted attention, and he was appointed assistant to the chair of surgery, then occupied by Professor P.S. Conner, of Cincinnati, graduating in 1880. He married Miss E. L. Cottrell, daughter of Asa Cottrell, Esq. of Lexington, and entered into active practice in Marlborough NH in 1880. He is a member of the NH State Medical Association, and served as delegate from that society to the American Medical Association at Washington in 1884, and is a member of that body. He enjoys a large and successful practice in Marlborough, especially in surgery to which he is enthusiastically devoted. CYRUS SIDNEY MOORS--He was born July 5, 1832 in Jaffrey NH. He was a reliable and industrious boy, making the most he could out of his meagre school advantages. While a mere youth his father was accidentally killed and so left the care and responsibility of a farm upon him, and his brother LOREN L. MOORS. Cyrus Sidney Moore was able to attend several select schools of the village. He followed the carpenter business for a while; then went into trade for a time; and at length became station-agent at the Marlborough Depot, on the Cheshire Railroad. He was postmaster for the south part of town, is an express agent, and mail and passage carrier from Marlborough Cheshire Depot to the village. He is interested in the Christian Church, and a temperance reformer. WILLIAM A. NASON--born August 7, 1832 the only son among four children of Ziba and Eunice (Buss) Nason. Attended district schools. He went into business at Swanzey Factor, manufacturing pails, sold out, and returned to Marlborough, entering a store as a clerk. For 12 years has been postmaster of the town; represented Marlborough in the legislature for two terms. Chosen a deacon of the Congregational church in 1870, which office he still holds. In 1855 he married Caroline E. Knowlton, who died in 1862, leaving a daughter that survived her only a few months. He married 2) Sarah A. Knowlton, a sister of his first wife. JEDEDIAH PUTNEY, a native of Charlton, Mass, located in Fitzwilliam about 80 years ago, and from there came to Marlboro, where he died in 1866, aged 81 years. His son, Moses, born in Fitzwilliam, came to Marlboro in 1864, but returned about seven years ago. DR. SAMUEL A. RIcHARDSON, was born in Dublin NH December 23, 1830; He was the youngest of four children, and the only son of Abijah and Mary (Hay) Richardson). His parents were of the old Dublin stock-- a little austere in manner, perhaps, as was the fashion of the time. His early life was spent on his father's farm, assisting with its duties, and labor. The common schools of Dublin at that time were equal, if not superior to any in Cheshire County; He attended the Hancock Literary and Scientific Institute, and the Normal Institute at Reeds Ferry [Merrimack NH]. He attended medical lectures at Philadelphia in 1852. In 1853 he entered his name as a student in the office of Albert Smith MD LLD of Peterborough. He attended a course of lectures at the Woodstock (Vt) Medical College in 1855. He graduated at the Albany Medical college, remained in a hospital one year, and came to Marlboro July 5, 1855. He remained in practice here until 1862, when he went out with the 13th NH Vols and remained in the service until the close of the war. At the time of the surrender of Lee, at Appomatox, the doctor furnished the lunch partaken of the vanquished and victorious commanders. With this refreshment he managed to furnish some liquor, which he said they drank in silence and with bowed heads. Dr. RIchardson died June 19, 1884. CHARLES RYAN was born in Boston, Mass, and was left an orphan at the age of about 3 years, or about the time he was brought to this town. He lived here until 21 years of age, when he went to Massachusetts and remained about 21 years, then came back to Marlboro. He married Arvilla Farrar, and occupies the farm upon which she was born. JEDEDIAH K. SOUTHWICK, a native of Danvers, Mass, and a potter by trade, came to Dublin at an early day, and died here in 1843. His son, Augustus Southwick came to Marlboro in 1854, and now resides on road 1, where he and his son, J. Kilburn Southwick are dairy farmers. HON. ANDREW C. STONE, was born in Marlborough May 16, 1839. He is a son of Aaron Stone. He was educated in the schools of Marlborough and at Appleton Academy at New Ipswich and Phillips Academy at Exeter. When a young man he taught school in Walpole, Keene, New Ipswich and Peterborough. In 1860 he commenced reading law at Lawrence, Mass, and continued his studies until August 1862, when he enlisted in the 33rd Massachusetts Volunteers, and served three years in the army. In 1865 he went to Ashtabula, Ohio, and completed his law studies with Judge Sherman, being admitted to the bar in the spring of 1867. He at once commenced the practice of law in Lawrence, Mass, where he has continued to reside and practice his profession until the present time. In 1869 he married Mary F. Hulbert, daughter of Joseph E. Hulbert, Esq. of Ashtabula, Ohio. He has taken great interest in the Grand Army of the Republic, having attended as a delegate of the National Encampments at Indianpolis, Baltimore and Denver. He is Past Commander of Post 39, Department of Massachusetts. He is a Knight Templar and Scottish Rite Mason, and Past Master of Phoenician Lodge, in Lawrence. He has been twice a member of the Common Council of Lawrence, and was one year president of the Massachusetts Republican State Central Committee. For the years 1880 and 1882 he was a member of the Massachusetts Senate, serving upon the committees on the judiciary and railroads. He was a delegate from his district to the Republican National Convention in Chicago in 1884, and favorted the renomination of President Arthur at that time. He has been an extensive traveler, having been largely through the United States and twice to Europe. He is at present city solicitor of Lawrence, Mass. REV. CYRUS STONE, son of Shubael and Polly (Rogers) STone was born in Marlborough June 9, 1793. He became a professing Christian at 19 yrs of age and remained a farmer up to the age of 24 years. He spent a year and a half at the Kimball Union Academy, Meriden, after which he entered Dartmouth in 1818, graduating in the class of 1822. He spent the summer working on the farm, and winter teaching in Fitzwilliam, Westminster Vt and other places. He entered the Andover Theological Seminary, graduating in the class of 1825. Around 1826 he continued medical studies at Darmouth COllege [NH] and Harvard Medical School. During that year he married Miss Atossa Frost, dau of Col. Joseph and Zilpha (Roberts) Frost, and with her sailed as a missionary, from Boston to Bombay, India, in the ship "Emerald" (Capt. Heard) on 7 May 1827, arriving in India in September. In 1841, after 14 years of service, due to health problems, and that of his wife, he returned to AMerica where he preached in various places including Bingham, Me, Harwich, Saugus and East Bridgewater, Mass, and located at Melrose, MA. He engaged in the publication of the "Mother's Assistant," and "Happy Home," monthly magazines of a religious character, and of books of a similar kind for families. He removed to Beechwood, a portion of Cohasset, Maine as pastor where he died 19 July 1867. JEREMIAH STONE, M.D., son of Shubel and Polly (Rogers) Stone was born in Marlborough Nov 2, 1798. He graduated at Dartmouth Medical College December 1825. He commenced the practice of medicine in Topsfield, Mass Jan 6, 1826 and remained there 11 years. He removed to New Bedford, MA and thence to Provincetown MA in 1864 where he remained until his death, except for 2 years in Chatham. He was an Abolitionist, and a worker in the Congregational Church (of which he had been a member since 1814). He was an honorary member of the Massachusetts Medical Society. He died April 23, 1875. HENRY P. TENNEY was born in Marlborough Dec 26, 1830. He was next to the youngest of four sons, of Calvin and Tabitha (Baker) TEnney. He attended local schools and academies. He taught in Mettowee Academy in Pawlet Vt., and then in Peterborough Academy (NH) and the select schools in Marlborough. He visited the far west. in 1862 he settled in East Jaffrey NH, as a clerk in the office of the cotton manufactory of A. Bascom & Co, where he continued for 6 years. In 1868 he went to Orange (mercantile trade) which he continued until his death. He served on the school board. He was one of the founders of Orange National Bank and of the Savings Bank. He was a Mason. In 1858 he married Julia Caroline Stibbins, of Hinsdale NH. They reared two sons--one a graduate from Brown University, and the other a clerk in his father's store. He died April 24, 1885, 44 years old. BENJAMIN THATCHER, one of the early settlers of the town, subsequently removed to Swanzey where he died. Benjamin Thatcher Jr., born here, made the town his home until twenty-one years of age, then removed to Keene, and finally to Swanzey, where he passed the remainder of his days. His son, George Thatcher, born in Keene, has spent most of his life in Marlboro, and now resides on School Street. ELIAS THATCHER, born here, and with the exception of a few years spent in Swanzey, resided here until his death, in February 1879, at the age of 88 years. His son, Elias A. Thatcher, was born here, and remained in the town until about 23 years of age, when he removed to Vermont, and from there to Massachusetts, though he has been a resident of the town since 1848. LEONARD ELLSWORTH TILDEN, only son of George and Betsey L. Tilden, was born at Marlborough NH March 18, 1861. His father, a staunch Republican, was one of the first to enroll his name as a volunteer in the Union Army during the Civil War. He very early evinced a strong literary taste and marked ability in writing and arranging articles for the press, many of which were published by the amateur press while he was a mere child. He attended the village school.... In 1875 he became identified with amateur journalism, and commenced the publication of the "Cheshire Star," which he enlarged to twice its former size in 1878, and changed the name to the "Granite State Courier." He was honored by the members of the New England fraternity by being elected official editor of their organ, the "New England Amateur" in 1879; at this time he was American editor of the "Season" an amateur magazine, published at Bradford, England. He has written several plays, which have been published, showing a good degree of dramatic talent. In 1875, when 14 years of age, he was engaged as a reporter for the "Cheshire Republican" of Keene, until 1882 when he went to Boston to attend French's Business College. While there he became a member of the reportorial staff of the "Boston Daily GLobe," and is at the present time under engagement to work for the paper whenever possible. He has been twice elected sergeant-at-arms in the NH Senate, first in 1883, for a term of 2 years, and re-elected in 1885, being the youngest man ever elected to that office, and the only one ever re-elected. He was elected president of the Republican Senatorial Convention for Cheshire District in 1884, and during the campaign of that year served acceptably as clerk and stenographer of the Republican State COmmittee. He was appointed a delegate from the State of NH to attend the funeral of General Grant, at New York, August 1885. BENJAMIN TUCKER, In 1765 he and his wife, with five sons and two daughters, came from Leicester, Mass, and settled not far south of the spot where the old meeting-house stood. As the house location turned out to be next to the road that became the highway from Boston to Keene, the log house was replaced with a structure used as a tavern, and a place of entertainment. This house was the place where the "proprietors" delighted to meet for the transaction of their business. Mr. Tucker acted an important part in the early public meetings, being often chosen as clerk, assessor or treasurer. CYRUS WAKEFIELD, son of James and Hannah (Hemenway) Wakefield was born in Marlborough February 14, 1811. His father's farm was included in that territory which, the following year, was set off to make the town of Roxbury; hence the report that he was a native of Roxbury. His father was a farmer. At an early age he grew restless. Arriving in Boston [MA] he at first entered a small retail grocery-store of Messrs. Wheeler & Bassett, on Washington street, but soon after secured a clerkship with Messrs. Stearns, Cobb & WInslow on India Street. In 1838 he formed a co-partnership with his younger brother, Enoch H. Wakefield, which lasted until 1844. In 1856 he began the manufacture of cane in Cheshire County, and moved his business to Wakefield. He died on Sunday, October 26, 1873 at the age of 62 years and 8 months. REV. WILLIAM C. WHITCOMB, son of Deacon Simeon and Sally (Lincoln) Whitcomb, was born in Marlborough NH Feb 9, 1820. He received from his parents a religious training, and in 1837 united with the Congregational Church. He pursued his literary and classical course at the academies in Jaffrey, Troy and Ashby (teaching to earn money to attend). He studied theology at Gilmanton Theological Seminary, completing his course in 1847, and which time he was licensed to preach. He attended the lectures of Professor Park in Andover Theological Seminar where he remained 2 years as a licentiate student. May 1, 1851 he was ordained pastor of the church in Stoneham, Mass. May 1, 1852 he married Miss Harriet L. Wheeler of Concord MA. In August 1855 he was dismissed from the church in Stoneham, after which he labored with the churches in Globe Village (Southbridge) MA, North Carver and Lynnfield Center (all in MA). He recieved a commission as chaplain of the US Hospital at Newbern NC which bears the signature of Abraham Lincoln and Edward M. Stanton dated July 5, 1862, which he held until the time of his death. His labors in Newbern, Portsmouth and Morehead City NC continued 2-1/4 years. In the summer of 1864 he returned home to Marlborough on a furlough of some length. In September he returned to NC to meet the sad effects of the yellow fever. Soon after he was attacked with malarial fever, and before he had fully recovered, he was taken with acute bronchitis, from the effects of which he died at the hospital in Morehead City, Oct 24, 1864. WILLIAM WHITE, a native of Boston, Mass, and a rope-maker by trade, came to Marlboro in 1778 and located where his great-grandson, Thomas H. now resides, and died here at the age of 84 years. Of his family of eleven children, the youngest died first, at the age of 52 years, while the oldest died at the age of 102 years. Thomas, son of Thomas, a native of this town, reared six children, two of whom died in infancy, and one, as mentioned above, occupied the homestead. He has been a traveling salesman for 25 years. REV. LUTHER WISWALL was born in Marlborough NH Jan 9, 1801. He attended the local common schools until he was 17, then attended 2 years at a local academy. In 1822 he united with the Congregational CHurch. In 1829 he purchased a small farm, and in 1830 married. He sold his farm and stock, and removed to Maine, and entered the seminary at Bangor where he graduated in 1836. The following years he settled as a pastor in Brooks and Jackson, Me for 4 years, removing to Windham where he lived the remainder of his life. He died in 1885. ABEL WOODWARD arrived in 1765 and his family settled in town on what has been known as the Joslin place in later times. DANIEL B. WOODWARD, M.D., eldest son of Stilman and Eunice (Buttrick) Woodward, was born in Marlborough NH Oct 1, 1835. He was the eldest of six children--four sons and two daughters--all of whom but one, the youngest son, are married and still living. He was early instructed to care for and cultivate his father's farm. His early education was limited to the district and select schools of his native town. He labored on his father's farm and in the wooden-ware shops near his home, until he reached his majority, when he spent two brief terms at Westminster Seminary, Vt. He commenced his professional studies under Dr. Samuel A. Richardson of Marlborough, and enlisted during the Civil War. He continued his professional studies in the hospitals of the U.S. Army, and subsequently entered Harvard Medical College of Boston MA where he graduated March 8, 1865, and received the degree of MD, and immediately began the practice of his profession in Troy NH. On 17 May 1865 he married Miss Ellen A. Burt of Plymouth, Vt. In 1868 he removed to Ellenburg, Clinton County NY where he continues to practice his profession. ELISHA O. WOODWARD, was born August 15, 1828. He was a native of Swanzey NH and came to Marlborough in 1851, as a clerk in the Protective Store; but at length bought out the stockholders, and continued in trade for himself in Lowellville for 3 years, when he purchased and removed into the store now owned by him and Mr. William Nason. In 1874 he sold out and moved to Grafton, MA, having purchased a good farm there. He held the office of clerk for 17 years, and 16 years treasurer; he was sent to the Legislature 2 years, been postmaster 15 years and served on the School board for several terms. ***** CHURCHES ***** THE TRINITARIAN CONGREGATIONAL cHURCH, located at Marlboro, was organized by a council convened for the purpose with eight members in 1778. The first pastor was Rev. Joseph Cummings. The first church building stood near what is now called Meeting-house pond, and was raised November 21, 1770, though it was not completed until 1774. The present brick structure was dedicated October 29, 1834. It will seat 400 persons, and it is valued, including grounds, etc at $12,000. The society now has 228 members, with Rev. John L. Merrill, pastor. THE FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF MARLBORO, located at the village, was organized by Rev. J.V. Wilson, with forty members, in October 1835, Rev. Edwin Davis being the first resident pastor. Their church building, a wood structed erected in 1850, will seat 250 persons, cost $2,000 and is valued at $5,000. The society has fifty members, with Rev. R.T. Polk, pastor. Fourteen pastors have been settled over this parish. The first, Rev. Mr. Davis served two terms. The present pastor has served the longest term. Two died in the pastorate, Rev. W.A. Barrett and L.L. Record. THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL cHURCH, located at the village, was organized by its first pastor, Rev. Thomas L. Fowler, with sixty members in 1859. Their church building will seat 250 persons, cost $1,300 and is now valued, including grounds, etc. at $3,000. The society now has 98 members, with Rev. C.W. Dockrill, pastor. The church also has a Sabbath-school with 107 members and an average attendance of 64. THE cATHOLICS--At the present time there are some twenty Catholic families in town, and the initiator steps have beem taken towards building a church edifice for them. At least, a asite has been secured for such a purpose... *** SCHOOLS** In 1770 the record shows that William Barker, Isaac McAllister and Richard Roberts were chosen a committee to expend the money accruing from the school land; and it would seem several schools were in operation the following winter in different parts of the town. These must have been kept in private houses, as no school-houses had then been built. In 1777 the town was divided into four districts, and the succeeding year it raised five hundred dollars for the support of schools; and the same year, because of the increase of population, another division was made as to districts, and measures were taken for building a school-house in each squadron, as it was called...In 1794 the town was re-districted again, making eight in all. Three of these afterwards were set off to Troy when it was incorporated. Some of these schools were now large. The northeast district numbered 60 and more scholars, whose brick school-house stood close by the Cofran place. The town has received three legacies for the support of the schools-- one in 1828 from Abijah Tucker of $80; another from Lydia W. Wyman in 1863 of $500; and another from Asahel Collins, in 1883 of $10,000. [Details in original document not included here, including many names of teachers except a few shown]... Jairus Collins Esq, Henry Clay Tenney Esq., John Q.. McCollester, MD, Joseph C. Mason, Esq., Professor Joseph C. Shattuck, Hannah Jones, Miss Ellen Herrick, Miss Maria Wakefield, Miss Harriet C. Holman, Miss Ellen R. Stone, Miss Eliza A. Stone. PHYSIcIANS The first physician to settle within the limits of Marlborough was DR. JUSTUS PERRY. Of early life of Dr. Perry but little is known beyond the fact that he was a native of Barre, Mass, and studied medicine with Dr. Stephen Batcheller Sr. of Royalston. He settled in Marlborough in 1786... Unfortunately, however, he acquired the habit of using ardent spirits, which so increased as to disqualify him for the practice of his profession. In 1796 he removed to the south part of town and located in what is now the village of Troy. He died in 1800. Dr. KENDALL BRUCE was a native of Marlborough, Mass. He was in this town as a practicing physician as early as 1793. He remained here but a few years, and then removed to Washington NH, where he continued his profession for several years; then he went to Peterborough NH, and from thence to Calais, Vt. where he died January 12, 1832. DR. DAVID cARTER was the next physician. He was a pupil of the celebrated Dr. Carter of Lancaster, and came to Marlborough soon after the completion of his studies in 1795. He was contemporary of the late Dr. Amos Twitchell, of Keene, and always remained on intimate terms with him. It was in this town, and in company with Dr. Carter, that Dr. Twitchell first commenced the practice of medicine. In his profession, Dr. Carter reached no inconsiderable eminence; his practice extended much into adjacent towns and somewhat into places more remote. He removed to Peterborough in 1812, and from there to Dublin in 1820, where he died January 9, 1828. Dr. Carter was succeeded by Dr. Ephraim K. Frost, who commenced practice here soon after the removal of Carter from town, in 1812. Dr. Frost was a native of Jaffrey. His early education was obtained in a school of three months each year; later, from a course in Dartmouth College. He studied medicine with Dr. Carter, paying his way by teaching school. He remained in practice here some six years, and then removed to Swanzey. He afterwards emigrated to Lincoln, NEB where he died in 1871. DR. JAMeS BATCHELLER was born in Royalston, Mass June 5, 1791. He was the son of Dr. Stephen Batcheller, the first physician of that town, who established himself there in 1768, and continued in practice until his death, in 1829, and the age of 83. Dr. James Batcheller spent his youthful days in his native town; attended schools and academies; then taught school two years in Pennsylvania On his return he studied his profession with an elder brother, Dr. Stephen Batcheller Jr., and afteward attended medical lectures at Dartmouth and took his degree of M.D. In May 1818 he came to Marlborough by invitation from Rev. Halloway Fish, and established himself as a practicing physician.....So extensive was his practice that it required the services of three horses to enable him to visit his numerous patients. As a physician he ranked high, as is evident from the fact that he was honored for some time with the presidency of the New Hampshire Medical Society. He was chosen representative and senator to the General Court of New Hampshire; was also elected counselor, and performed the duties of each with honor to himself and benefit to his constituents. He was also a delegate to the convention to revise the Constitution of Nh in 1850-51. He was no timid advocate of the cause of emancipation of the slave, and this, too when it required strong nerves to stem the large majorities against him. At a meeting in Concord, for the purpose of discussing the anti-slavery question, Dr. Batcheller and General Franklin Pierce (afterwards President of the United States) were pitted against each other. So well did the doctor argue his side of the question, that he convinced his opponent, and, as they came out of the meeting, Pierce slapped him on the shoulder and said, "Doctor, you are right; but the time has not come yet." He was also a zealous advocate of the cause of temperance.. After a residence of some 37 years in Marlborough, he removed to Fitzwilliam to be near his sons, who had previously established themselves in business there. **SEE BIOGRAPHIES OF EARLY SETTLERS FOR MORE PHYSICIANS** ***** SOCIETIES ***** ODD-FELLOWSHIP--In the year 1868, Paquaig Lodge, No. 50, I.O.O.F was established in Marlborough. It started with twelve charter members, and has continued to increase until it now has some 70 members. It has accumulated quite a property and built a fine block, renting a portion for stores. ***** CEMETERIES ***** The people of Marlborough have not been unmindful of the dead. From the beginning of the town they have been ready to make ample provision for suitable resting places of the departed. The yard by the old meeting-house is the oldest one in town. This contains the ashes of the first minister that died in the town and the first physician. Its acre is thickly down with the dead. Two other cemeteries were early set apart--one in the north portion of the town, and the other on the hillside, south of the village--as sacred places. In 1852, Asa Greenwood anticipated the need of a new cemetery, and so took off a section of his own land and fenced it off with taste and caused it to be solemnly dedicated; and it is now known as Graniteville Cemetery. It is beautifully situated on the hill overlooking the village, and is becoming so thickly sown with graves that a new one in close proximity has been secured, fenced and divided into lots... **** THE FROST FREE LIBRARY--it was a gift from Hon. Rufus Frost to Marlborough. Its building is a fire-proof, handsome granite stucture, pleasantly situated. It was completed and dedicated in 1867, and supplied with 2000 volumes of good books. **** PONDS--The Stone Pond, situated in the east part of Marlborough, is its largest body of water; it is about 3/4 of a mile in length and one-third of a mile in width; its elevation is some 2000 feet above the level of the sea. Its water is clear and sparkling. Its native fish were trout; 75 years ago large quantities of them were caught from it weighing from 3 to 4 pounds each. At length the pond was stocked with pickerel, and the trout since that have nearly disappeared. The pickerel grow to a large size. The yellow perch are now its most abundant fish. The scenery just around this pond and in the distance can scarcely be surpassed. The CUmmings Pond, in the north parta of the town, is about three- fourths of a mile long and one-fourth wide. No doubt it was formerly much larger than at the present. Trout were once common in this pond, but now pickerel, pouts and shiners monopolize its waters. Through the ice hundreds of pickerel have been caught from it in a single day. The Clapp Pond is in the northeast part of the town. It it not as large as the Cummings Pond, but more depressed. Its waters are not so clear as those of the Stone Pond. Its fish consist mainly of pickerel and pouts. The Meeting-House Pond, near where the old meeting-house stood, occupies an area of one hundred square acres, including the open water and what is grown over with bog. This pond has long been a favorite resort for fishing. Its waters have been prolific of pickerel and catfish. STREAMS AND BROOKS--The largest stream is the Minni-wawa. Its head-waters are in Nelson and Dublin. Flowing through a very broken country, it is subject to sudden rise and fall of water; still, by the means of reservoirs and ponds, it is supplied with power sufficient for extensive manufactories of woolen goods, wooden-wares and for grinding grain... It has been faithful in driving saws, spindles and millstones, so as to supply work for many active minds and busy hands. Its falls and basin, a short distance above the village, are natural curiosities, of special interests to lovers of the grand and beautiful. Another stream is known as the South Branch, which is about the size of the Minniwawa. Its current is rapid and its bed very stony. Its waters have been utilized in propelling lathes and saw. There are several brooks in town which are supplied with pure, cold water, furnishing countless haunts for finny tribes. (end)
History_Marlborough_NH
| File name | History_Marlborough_NH.txt |
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| Linked to | TUCKER, Moses |